Victims identified in DC crash involving American Airlines jet, Army helicopter

Family and friends of those who lost their lives in the tragic American Airlines and Army helicopter collision are sharing heartfelt tributes online as they wait for more answers about how this devastating incident occurred. The midair crash that took place around 9 p.m. on Wednesday near Reagan National Airport outside of Washington, D.C., resulted in the presumed death of all 67 people onboard both aircraft.
Among the victims was Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves, a Brooksville native and Army pilot, whose wife, Carrie, took to Facebook to share a message about his untimely passing. She requested prayers for their family and friends, as well as for all the other families affected by this tragedy. Carrie Eaves also urged the public to refrain from making negative comments on social media, as the children of the victims do not need to endure any more pain during this difficult time.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves confirmed the heartbreaking news of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves’ death and expressed his and his wife Elee’s prayers for the victims’ families and first responders involved in the aftermath of the collision.
Another victim of the crash was 28-year-old Sam Lilley, identified by his father, Tim Lilley, as the first officer on American Airlines Flight 5342. Tim Lilley expressed his immense pride in his son’s achievements as a pilot and mourned the devastating loss of Sam, who was engaged to be married in the fall. Friends and colleagues also shared their memories of Sam Lilley, describing him as a phenomenal pilot and a cherished friend.
Flight attendant Ian Epstein was also among the victims on board the ill-fated flight, leaving behind a loving family who described him as full of life and deeply devoted to his loved ones. Ian Epstein’s family remembered him as a father, stepfather, husband, and brother who will be dearly missed.
As the families of the victims grapple with their profound grief, the community is coming together to honor the memory of those lost in the tragic collision. Loudoun County Public Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia expressed their condolences to the families affected by the crash, including former students and parents who tragically lost their lives.
The Skating Club of Boston also suffered a devastating loss, with six members perishing in the collision. Doug Zeghibe, the CEO of the skating club, shared his sorrow over the tragedy, noting that the tight-knit skating community has been deeply affected by the loss of their beloved members.
The tragic collision between the American Airlines jet and the Army helicopter has left a profound impact on the families, friends, and communities of those who lost their lives. As they wait for answers and seek solace in their memories, they are united in their grief and their determination to honor the legacies of their loved ones.